One of the strongest characteristics of genius is the power of lighting its own fire.

One of the strongest characteristics of genius is the power of lighting its own fire.

Here lies our good Edmund, whose genius was such
We scarcely can praise it or blame it too much;
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Here lies our good Edmund, whose genius was such
We scarcely can praise it or blame it too much;
Who, born for the universe, narrow'd his mind,
And to party gave up what was meant for mankind.

Genius may have its limitations, but stupidity is not thus handicapped.

Genius may have its limitations, but stupidity is not thus handicapped.

Ridicule more often settles things more thoroughly and better
than acrimony.
[Lat., Ridiculum acri fortius ac melius magnas read more

Ridicule more often settles things more thoroughly and better
than acrimony.
[Lat., Ridiculum acri fortius ac melius magnas plerumque secat
res.]

Only mediocrity can be trusted to be always at its best.

Only mediocrity can be trusted to be always at its best.

Only the mediocre are always at their best.

Only the mediocre are always at their best.

"Mediocrity" doesn't mean average intelligence, it means an average intelligence that resents and envies its betters.

"Mediocrity" doesn't mean average intelligence, it means an average intelligence that resents and envies its betters.

Mediocrity would always win by force of numbers, but it would win only more mediocrity.

Mediocrity would always win by force of numbers, but it would win only more mediocrity.

The hearing ear is always found close to the speaking tongue; and
no genius can long or often utter read more

The hearing ear is always found close to the speaking tongue; and
no genius can long or often utter anything which is not invited
and gladly entertained by men around him.